Epstein used major dating apps after sex offender status, files suggest
Mashable
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Jeffrey Epstein, the deceased billionaire and convicted sex offender, appears to have used major dating apps like Match.com, OkCupid, and JDate after his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. Files released by the Department of Justice suggest Epstein had multiple accounts on Match.com in 2012, including profiles linked to his Gmail and Yahoo addresses. Emails from Match indicate he received congratulatory messages, offers for extended access, and birthday wishes—matching the date of his 60th birthday. This raises questions about how dating platforms handle user safety and background checks, particularly when it comes to individuals with criminal records.
The files also reveal that Epstein was banned from Xbox Live in 2013 due to his status as a registered sex offender, further highlighting the contrast between his restricted access on gaming platforms and his apparent ability to use dating apps. Credit card statements show payments to Match.com both before and after his conviction, suggesting he actively used these services despite his criminal history. Additionally, the files hint at Epstein potentially investing in Match Group, the parent company of popular apps like Tinder and Hinge.
Lawyer Carrie Goldberg, representing plaintiffs suing Match Group over similar issues, emphasized that dating platforms have a legal duty to ensure user safety by conducting background checks. However, Match.com’s 2012 terms of service acknowledged this responsibility while lacking robust enforcement mechanisms at the time. The files underscore how limited safeguards existed when Epstein was active on these apps, raising concerns about the broader implications for online dating safety.
The case also sheds light on the potential risks of allowing individuals with criminal histories to use platforms designed for personal connections. As noted by a Match spokesperson, the activity in question occurred during a time when safety tools and background checks were far more limited than they are today. This highlights the importance of continuous improvement in user verification processes to prevent harm.
Overall, Epstein’s apparent use of dating apps after his conviction underscores the need for stricter oversight and transparency in the tech industry, particularly in platforms where personal connections
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Originally published on Mashable on 2/20/2026